The Wanderer returns with wickets aplenty!

Dan Black

Seasoned amateur Ian Britcliffe proved Ribblesdale Wanderers’ leading light in a weekend of mixed fortunes for the club.

The 2013 Player of the Year was the division’s most potent bowler last season when accumulating 101 wickets, and he was prolific again in defeat to Earby and victory over Penwortham in the LCB Knockout Cup.

Ian Britcliffe in action against Earby.

Despite a 75-run reverse at the Applegarth, Britcliffe performed admirably when restricting the hosts to 137 after accumulating figures of 7-55 off 20.2 overs. However, the away side’s demise came with the bat as John Rain top-scored with 18.

Then, 24 hours later, Wanderers showed great character to respond with a comprehensive victory in the county cup competition.

Once again Britcliffe was at the fore, taking five scalps for 41 runs to limit the away side to 107 at Church Meadow.

Brannon Varley then starred with the bat as he fired 71 to knock the opposition target off within 20 overs.

“Saturday was very disappointing but Sunday was a vast improvement,” said skipper Charlie Jackson. “It was really bad from a batting perspective but our bowling performance was spot on.”

“Ian was fantastic as usual and he’s going the right way about hitting last year’s total. It was a very good display. He sets very high standards for himself. He built the pressure from his end and took the wickets.

“The bowlers have really stuck at it and done a great job. As a batting unit we need to stick together and be positive in order to score some runs.”